FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE News Media Contact:
October 11, 2000 David Fiske (202) 418-0513
Statement of FCC Chairman William E. Kennard
Court of Appeals Order on Political Editorial and Personal Attack Rules
I am disappointed with the court’s decision to repeal these rules without the benefit of the
further inquiry that a temporary suspension of the rules would have provided.
However, these rules are only a small part of the much more important question: how are
broadcasters, as public trustees, enhancing the democratic process. We will use this opportunity
to test broadcasters’ claims that the rules chill speech and to determine how best to ensure that
the public receives balanced coverage of controversial issues.
We intend to move forward promptly to study the public interest obligations of
broadcasters in the digital age, including whether these rules should be reinstated.
- FCC -
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News media Information 202 / 418-0500
Fax-On-Demand 202 / 418-2830
TTY 202/418-2555
Internet: http://www.fcc.gov
ftp.fcc.gov
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, D. C. 20554
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order
constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).